What’s so special in Shilpgram Utsav 2013? Highlights

The annual art, craft and cultural extravaganza of Shilpgram is going to start from 21^st Dec. There are many new features and programs added in one of the biggest festivals of traditional artists in India.

Organized by West Zone Cultural Center, Shilpgram Utsav gives opportunity for the extraordinary local arts and craftsmen to exhibit their skills.

Theme of Shilpgram Utsav 2013 – Tribal culture and tradition is the theme of Shilpgram Utsav this year. Folk artists from various indigenous tribes are invited in the event. The decoration of Shilpgram is also based on the tribal theme.

New Art genres – Brojai (Arunachal Pradesh), Tamang Selo (Sikkim), Gond Madiya (Chattisgarh), Chofla Thadia (Uttrakhand), Karga Koltta (Karnataka), Bindori Dance (Jhalawar).

Folk Musical Instrument – Special programs are scheduled this year to showcase musical instruments played by tribal communities of different states. Likewise, on 21^st and 22^nd Dec “Adinad” a Gujarati music form, on 23^rd and 24^th Taal-Tarang from Goa and on 26^th and 27^th, Maharashtra’s Naad-Jhunj and Rajasthan’s Mewat Dhwani will be presented.

Program by Special Children – It is for the first time that special children from Gujarat’s Bhavnagar will showcase their dance performance on 21^st and 22^nd Dec.

Art showcase – Khajur Patti (Madhya Pradesh), Hyderabadi Bengals, Kauna Silai (Manipur), Bamboo and Thaka Painting (Sikkim), Wooden Lakenwear (Karnataka), Kantha Art (Assam), Mangalgiri Handloom (Andhra Pradesh), Terracotta, Sea Shell and Coconut Shell (Goa), Nakkashi (Uttar Pradesh), Minakari on Brass (Jaipur), Dokra Shilp (Chattisgarh) and Wood inlay work (Karnataka) will be showcased.

Food Delicacies – Marathi and Hyderabadi food will be center of attraction, Gujarati and Rajasthani food cuisines will also add fun for food lovers.

Digital Hut – To connect local craftsmen and artists from e-commerce and online business, Shilpgram will make a database which will lower the distance between an artists and customer. A special digital hut is prepared this time at Shilpgram.

For Kids – A special area is made for learning and entertainment for kids where they can learn mask making, sand craft and other arts under the direction of professionals.

Other than cultural programs and arts of various types, a painting exhibition, sculpture park, sand art and Tribal exhibition are also going to be the attractions of Shilpgram Utsav 2013.